Glazed Spiral-Cut Ham recipe

What I love most about spiral-cut ham, besides the ease of cooking, is how incredibly flavorful it becomes with a good glaze. The pre-sliced nature allows the glaze to penetrate deeply, infusing every single slice with deliciousness. And this glaze recipe? It’s the perfect balance of sweet, savory, and tangy, creating a caramelized crust that’s simply irresistible. My family raves about this ham every year, and it’s consistently the first dish to disappear from the buffet. Whether it’s Easter, Christmas, Thanksgiving, or even just a special Sunday dinner, this Glazed Spiral-Cut Ham is guaranteed to be a showstopper. If you’re looking for a centerpiece that’s both elegant and effortless, look no further. Prepare for compliments – and requests for the recipe!

Ingredients for a Showstopping Glazed Spiral-Cut Ham

To create a truly memorable Glazed Spiral-Cut Ham, you’ll need a quality ham and a flavorful glaze. The ingredients for both are straightforward, but each plays a vital role in the final delicious result. Here’s what you’ll need to assemble:

For the Spiral-Cut Ham:

• Spiral-Cut Ham: 8-10 pound, fully cooked, bone-in or boneless. A spiral-cut ham is essential for this recipe as the pre-slicing allows the glaze to penetrate deeply and evenly. Choose a ham size appropriate for your number of guests. Fully cooked hams are readily available and require only heating and glazing. Bone-in hams tend to be more flavorful and moist, while boneless hams are easier to carve and serve. The choice is yours based on preference and availability.

For the Glaze:

• Brown Sugar: 1 cup, packed. Brown sugar forms the sweet and caramelized base of our glaze. The molasses in brown sugar adds depth of flavor and contributes to the beautiful color and sticky texture of the glaze. Light or dark brown sugar can be used – dark brown sugar will have a richer, more intense molasses flavor.
• Dijon Mustard: ¼ cup. Dijon mustard provides a tangy counterpoint to the sweetness of the brown sugar and adds a savory complexity to the glaze. Its smooth texture helps to create a cohesive and glossy glaze. You can also use a grainy Dijon for a slightly different texture and visual appeal.
• Apple Cider Vinegar: ¼ cup. Apple cider vinegar adds acidity, which balances the sweetness and enhances the other flavors in the glaze. It also helps to tenderize the ham slightly and creates a more nuanced flavor profile. You can substitute with other vinegars like balsamic or white wine vinegar for slightly different flavor notes.
• Honey: ¼ cup. Honey adds another layer of sweetness and contributes to the glaze’s glossy shine and sticky texture. It also has a unique floral sweetness that complements the other ingredients. You can use other liquid sweeteners like maple syrup in a pinch, but honey provides a distinct flavor that is particularly well-suited to ham.
• Orange Juice: ½ cup, freshly squeezed. Orange juice adds a bright, citrusy note that lightens the glaze and complements the savory ham. Freshly squeezed juice is always preferred for the best flavor, but good quality bottled orange juice can also be used. The acidity of the orange juice also helps tenderize the ham.
• Ground Cloves: ½ teaspoon. Ground cloves add a warm, aromatic spice that is classic in ham glazes. A little goes a long way, so start with ½ teaspoon and adjust to your preference. Cloves provide a distinctive holiday spice flavor that is comforting and familiar.
• Ground Cinnamon: ½ teaspoon. Ground cinnamon adds another layer of warm spice and complements the cloves and other glaze ingredients. Like cloves, cinnamon adds a comforting and holiday-appropriate flavor. Ensure your spices are fresh for the best aroma and taste.
• Optional additions (for extra flavor depth):
  • Pineapple Juice: ¼ cup. For a sweeter, tropical twist. Pineapple juice adds enzymes that can further tenderize the ham.
  • Soy Sauce: 1 tablespoon. For a savory umami note. Soy sauce adds depth and complexity without making the glaze taste overtly Asian.
  • Garlic Powder: 1 teaspoon. For a subtle savory garlic flavor. Garlic powder enhances the savory notes of the ham and glaze.
  • Ginger (freshly grated or ground): 1 teaspoon. For a spicy and aromatic kick. Ginger adds warmth and a slight zing to the glaze.

Gather these ingredients, and you’re ready to create a truly spectacular Glazed Spiral-Cut Ham that will be the star of your meal!

Step-by-Step Instructions for Glazing and Baking Your Spiral-Cut Ham

Creating a perfectly Glazed Spiral-Cut Ham is surprisingly straightforward. Follow these easy steps to achieve a juicy, flavorful, and beautifully glazed centerpiece:

1. Preheat Oven and Prepare Ham: Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Remove the spiral-cut ham from its packaging and place it in a roasting pan. You can line the roasting pan with foil for easier cleanup if desired. If your ham came with a plastic disk on the bottom, remove it before baking.
2. Prepare the Glaze: While the oven preheats, prepare the glaze. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the brown sugar, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, honey, orange juice, ground cloves, and ground cinnamon (and any optional additions you are using). Whisk all ingredients together until well combined.
3. Simmer the Glaze: Bring the glaze mixture to a simmer, stirring occasionally. Reduce the heat to low and let it simmer gently for about 5-7 minutes, or until the glaze has slightly thickened and the sugar is fully dissolved. Simmering helps to meld the flavors together and create a richer glaze. Keep an eye on the glaze to prevent it from burning.
4. Glaze the Ham (First Layer): Using a pastry brush or spoon, generously brush about half of the glaze all over the spiral-cut ham, ensuring it gets into the slices as much as possible. The spiral cuts will allow the glaze to penetrate deep into the ham, infusing it with flavor. Reserve the remaining glaze for basting later.
5. Bake the Ham: Cover the roasting pan with foil. This helps to keep the ham moist during baking. Bake in the preheated oven for approximately 10-14 minutes per pound, or until the ham is heated through. A general guideline is about 1.5-2 hours for an 8-10 pound ham. Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature – it should reach 140°F (60°C). Since the ham is already fully cooked, you are just heating it through and glazing it.
6. Baste with Remaining Glaze (and Uncover): In the last 20-30 minutes of baking, remove the foil from the roasting pan. Brush the ham with the remaining glaze. Basting with the glaze during the final baking time will create a beautiful, caramelized crust. You can baste the ham 2-3 times during this final baking period for a thicker, more pronounced glaze.
7. Broil for Extra Caramelization (Optional): For an even more caramelized and visually appealing glaze, you can broil the ham for the last 2-3 minutes of cooking. Watch it very closely to prevent the glaze from burning. Broiling is optional but adds a wonderful finish to the ham.
8. Rest Before Carving: Once the ham is heated through and beautifully glazed, remove it from the oven and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before carving and serving. Resting allows the juices to redistribute throughout the ham, resulting in a more moist and flavorful final product. Tent the ham loosely with foil while it rests to keep it warm.
9. Carve and Serve: Carving a spiral-cut ham is incredibly easy. Simply run a knife along the bone (if bone-in) and then separate the pre-sliced sections. Arrange the glazed ham slices on a platter and serve immediately.

Enjoy your beautifully Glazed Spiral-Cut Ham! This recipe is sure to impress your guests and become a holiday tradition.

Glazed Spiral-Cut Ham Nutrition Facts

(Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and can vary based on specific ingredients, ham type, and serving size. These values are approximate and based on a 4-ounce serving of ham with glaze. For precise nutritional information, use a nutrition calculator with your specific ingredients.)

Serving Size: Approximately 4 ounces (113 grams) of ham (without bone weight).

Calories per serving: Approximately 350-400 calories

Approximate Nutritional Breakdown per Serving:

• Total Fat: 20-25g
  • Saturated Fat: 8-10g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 12-15g
• Cholesterol: 80-100mg
• Sodium: 1200-1500mg (Ham is naturally high in sodium. Sodium content can vary depending on the type of ham.)
• Total Carbohydrates: 20-25g
  • Dietary Fiber: 0-1g
  • Sugars: 18-22g (Primarily from the glaze)
• Protein: 25-30g

Important Considerations:

• Sodium Content: Ham is naturally high in sodium. Individuals watching their sodium intake should be mindful of portion sizes and consider lower-sodium ham options if available.
• Sugar Content: The glaze contributes a significant amount of sugar. While it adds delicious flavor, those monitoring sugar intake should be aware. You can adjust the sweetness of the glaze by reducing the brown sugar and honey slightly.
• Fat Content: Ham, especially bone-in ham, can have a moderate to high fat content. Choose leaner cuts of ham if desired.
• Protein Source: Ham is an excellent source of protein, essential for muscle building and satiety.

This Glazed Spiral-Cut Ham, while a delicious holiday centerpiece, should be enjoyed as part of a balanced diet. Be mindful of portion sizes, especially considering the sodium and sugar content.

Preparation Time: Simple and Efficient

Preparing a Glazed Spiral-Cut Ham is remarkably efficient, especially compared to roasting a whole, un-sliced ham. Here’s a breakdown of the preparation time:

• Prep Time: 20 minutes (This includes preparing the glaze and getting the ham ready for the oven.)
• Cook Time: 1.5 – 2 hours (Depending on the size of the ham and oven temperature consistency.)
• Rest Time: 10-15 minutes
• Total Time: Approximately 1 hour 40 minutes to 2 hours 35 minutes

Hands-on time is minimal, making this recipe ideal for busy hosts during the holidays. The majority of the time is hands-off oven time. The make-ahead glaze is another time-saver – you can prepare the glaze a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. This recipe allows you to focus on other aspects of your holiday meal or enjoy time with your guests while the ham bakes.

How to Serve Your Glazed Spiral-Cut Ham: Holiday Centerpiece and Beyond

Glazed Spiral-Cut Ham is a versatile and impressive dish, perfect as the centerpiece of a holiday feast or a special occasion meal. Here are various ways to serve and enjoy it:

• As a Grand Holiday Centerpiece:
  • Traditional Holiday Dinners: The star of Easter, Christmas, Thanksgiving, or New Year’s celebrations. Place the whole glazed ham on a large platter surrounded by garnishes like fresh herbs, oranges, or cranberries for a stunning presentation.
  • Buffet Style: Perfect for large gatherings. Arrange the ham on a buffet table with serving tongs, allowing guests to help themselves.
  • Formal Dinners: Carve the ham and arrange slices artfully on a platter for a more elegant presentation at a formal dinner.
• Accompaniments and Side Dishes:
  • Classic Holiday Sides: Pair with traditional holiday sides like mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables (asparagus, Brussels sprouts, carrots), green bean casserole, sweet potato casserole, stuffing or dressing, and cranberry sauce.
  • Salads: Serve alongside refreshing salads to balance the richness of the ham. Consider a green salad with vinaigrette, fruit salad, or a creamy coleslaw.
  • Bread and Rolls: Offer a selection of warm rolls, biscuits, or cornbread to complement the ham.
• Serving Suggestions for Different Occasions:
  • Casual Family Meals: Serve directly from the roasting pan or a simple serving platter.
  • Potlucks and Gatherings: Transport the ham in a covered roasting pan or on a platter covered with foil. Reheat gently if necessary, or serve at room temperature if it’s been recently cooked.
  • Leftovers: Glazed Spiral-Cut Ham leftovers are fantastic! Use them in sandwiches, soups, omelets, quiches, or diced in salads.
• Garnishing Ideas:
  • Fresh Herbs: Rosemary sprigs, thyme, parsley, or sage.
  • Citrus: Orange slices, lemon wedges, or grapefruit segments.
  • Fruits: Cranberries, cherries, pineapple chunks.
  • Spices: Whole cloves, cinnamon sticks.

No matter the occasion, Glazed Spiral-Cut Ham is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Its impressive presentation and delicious flavor make it a memorable centerpiece for any meal.

Additional Tips for a Perfectly Glazed Spiral-Cut Ham

Want to ensure your Glazed Spiral-Cut Ham is absolutely perfect? Here are five essential tips for ham success every time:

1. Choose Quality Ham: Start with a good quality spiral-cut ham. Whether you choose bone-in or boneless, look for ham that is moist and has good color. The quality of the ham will significantly impact the final flavor. Read labels and choose a ham that suits your budget and preferences.
2. Don’t Overbake: Since spiral-cut ham is already fully cooked, the goal is to heat it through and glaze it, not to cook it further. Overbaking can dry out the ham. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches an internal temperature of 140°F (60°C) and remove it from the oven promptly.
3. Baste Generously: Don’t be shy with the glaze! Basting the ham multiple times, especially during the last 20-30 minutes of baking, is crucial for creating a thick, flavorful, and beautifully caramelized glaze. Ensure you brush glaze into the spiral cuts to maximize flavor penetration.
4. Adjust Glaze Sweetness: Taste the glaze before applying it to the ham and adjust the sweetness to your liking. If you prefer a less sweet glaze, reduce the amount of brown sugar or honey. You can also add a bit more Dijon mustard or vinegar for extra tanginess.
5. Let it Rest: Resting the ham after baking is essential for juicy and tender slices. Allow the ham to rest for at least 10-15 minutes before carving. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the ham, resulting in a more flavorful and moist final product. Tent it loosely with foil to keep it warm while resting.

By following these tips, you’ll be well on your way to creating a truly outstanding Glazed Spiral-Cut Ham that will impress everyone at your table!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Glazed Spiral-Cut Ham

Got questions about preparing Glazed Spiral-Cut Ham? Here are answers to common queries to help you achieve ham perfection:

Q1: How do I know when my spiral-cut ham is done?

A: Spiral-cut ham is already fully cooked, so you are simply heating it through. The best way to determine when it’s ready is to use a meat thermometer. Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the ham, avoiding the bone. It should reach an internal temperature of 140°F (60°C). Overcooking will dry out the ham, so don’t exceed this temperature.

Q2: Can I make the glaze ahead of time?

A: Yes, absolutely! You can prepare the glaze up to 2-3 days in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to glaze the ham, simply reheat the glaze in a saucepan over low heat until it’s smooth and slightly warmed. Making the glaze ahead of time can save you time and stress on the day you plan to bake the ham.

Q3: My glaze is too thick/too thin – how do I fix it?

A: If your glaze is too thick, you can thin it out by adding a tablespoon or two of orange juice or water and stirring until it reaches the desired consistency. If your glaze is too thin, simmer it for a few more minutes over low heat to allow it to reduce and thicken slightly. Be careful not to simmer it too long, or it might become too thick or burn.

Q4: Can I use a different type of glaze on a spiral-cut ham?

A: Absolutely! This recipe provides a delicious brown sugar-based glaze, but you can definitely experiment with other flavors. Some popular glaze variations include:
* Maple Glaze: Use maple syrup instead of honey for a maple-flavored glaze.
* Cherry Glaze: Use cherry preserves or cherry juice as a base for a fruity glaze.
* Pineapple Glaze: Use pineapple juice and brown sugar for a tropical twist.
* Mustard Glaze: Increase the Dijon mustard and add a touch of Worcestershire sauce for a savory mustard glaze.
* Honey-Dijon Glaze: Combine honey and Dijon mustard for a simple and classic glaze.

Feel free to explore different flavor combinations to find your favorite glaze for spiral-cut ham.

Q5: What’s the best way to store leftover Glazed Spiral-Cut Ham?

A: To store leftover Glazed Spiral-Cut Ham, let it cool slightly, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Properly stored leftover ham will last for 3-4 days in the refrigerator. You can also freeze leftover ham for longer storage (up to 2-3 months). For freezing, wrap the ham tightly in freezer wrap or place it in freezer bags to prevent freezer burn. Thaw frozen ham in the refrigerator before reheating.

Enjoy making and serving your delicious Glazed Spiral-Cut Ham! It’s a holiday centerpiece that is sure to impress.

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